A Gentle Ticking

I noticed a faint, steady sound coming from the side table. Moving slowly across the polished wood, I peeked behind a stack of books and found a brass pocket watch lying open. The round glass cover caught the lamp's glow, and the tiny second hand was stepping forward in quiet, perfect clicks. I leaned close to feel the tiny vibration against my plush side. It felt peaceful, like a small, steady heartbeat keeping me company in the quiet evening.